2009 MLB Discussion Thread

[aNYtitan]

But a season ending injury none the less...?

Ehhh its a rivalry of course, you don't hear them asking for Vlad Guerrero to fall down the stairs

[Sniper]

Ehhh its a rivalry of course, you don't hear them asking for Vlad Guerrero to fall down the stairs

His post-roids cycle covers any injuries so you don't have to root for any.

[aNYtitan]

His post-roids cycle covers any injuries so you don't have to root for any.

Ah of course...well then I hope Beckett's blister problems start picking up just in time for October.

[no bare feet]

Just picked up Travis Snider off of waivers

[aNYtitan]

Just picked up Travis Snider off of waivers

If its a keeper league, then awesome job dude

[Sniper]

Ah of course...well then I hope Beckett's blister problems start picking up just in time for October.

You could run Beckett over with an 18-wheeler and he'd still be the man in the playoffs.

[no bare feet]

If its a keeper league, then awesome job dude

It is! Jackpot! My team is out of the running now so I am doing some waiver whoring.

[aNYtitan]

It is! Jackpot! My team is out of the running now so I am doing some waiver whoring.

You might also want to look into trading some veterans for prospects for next year

[aNYtitan]

You could run Beckett over with an 18-wheeler and he'd still be the man in the playoffs.

Well history so far goes against A-Rod, but I think this season should be a pretty good representation of how he can do in the clutch.

[Sniper]

Well history so far goes against A-Rod, but I think this season should be a pretty good representation of how he can do in the clutch.

A-Rod's had his fair share of clutch regular-season moments before. However, he's been in that brutal playoff funk since the second half of the '04 ALCS.

[aNYtitan]

A-Rod's had his fair share of clutch regular-season moments before. However, he's been in that brutal playoff funk since the second half of the '04 ALCS.

Well, lets see what happens this season...cause you might not even need Beckett for October

[Jughead10]

Well, lets see what happens this season...cause you might not even need Beckett for October

Very true. Before the Red Sox worry about trying to catch the Yankees, they need to worry about putting some distance between them and the Rangers this weekend.

[Sniper]

Before the Red Sox worry about trying to catch the Yankees

http://www.gonomad.com/readuponit/uploaded_images/white_flag-771638.jpg

[aNYtitan]

http://www.gonomad.com/readuponit/uploaded_images/white_flag-771638.jpg

Ah I see. Waving the white flag of war huh?

[SuperKevin]

Rumor out of the Strasburg camp is that his parents want him to sign with the Nationals to avoid having to sit out a year. They know he won't improve by playing in the Independent Leagues and are afraid that he'll be losing a ton of money by being selected 3rd overall next year(assuming the Nats have the top two picks).

Also they know the sooner he starts this contract, the sooner he'll get the big FA money

[cvv84]

Rumor out of the Strasburg camp is that his parents want him to sign with the Nationals to avoid having to sit out a year. They know he won't improve by playing in the Independent Leagues and are afraid that he'll be losing a ton of money by being selected 3rd overall next year(assuming the Nats have the top two picks).

Also they know the sooner he starts this contract, the sooner he'll get the big FA money

I'd say its 99% certain that he'll sign. Its the typical Boras tatic of waiting to the last minute to squeeze out every penny that he can get.

[SuperKevin]

I'd say its 99% certain that he'll sign. Its the typical Boras tatic of waiting to the last minute to squeeze out every penny that he can get.

I agree. I wrote in my blog today about how 50 million dollars over 6 years may actually be a bargain for the Nationals.

[T-RICH49]

the Nats may not have the top 2 picks(we're catching up with them)

[yo123]

I remember when people were trying to convince me that the Royals were going to win the division this year.

[SuperKevin]

the Nats may not have the top 2 picks(we're catching up with them)

If you had the #1 pick would you take Strasburg or Bryce Harper?

[Tampa 2 4 life]

I agree. I wrote in my blog today about how 50 million dollars over 6 years may actually be a bargain for the Nationals.

http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2009/3/3/777412/al-west-farm-system-values

I wouldn't give him more than 20 mil. I know he's not the 'average' top 10 pitching prospect, but Pitchers aren't even close to being the sure things hitters are.


I'd take Harper every single time.

[Brodeur]

I'd take Harper every single time.

And you're going to be WRONG. WRONG WRONG WRONG.

[SuperKevin]

http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2009/3/3/777412/al-west-farm-system-values

I wouldn't give him more than 20 mil. I know he's not the 'average' top 10 pitching prospect, but Pitchers aren't even close to being the sure things hitters are.


I'd take Harper every single time.

I'd take Harper too. I'm hoping the Nats can end up with both. With Harper you can get a once in a lifetime offensive force or a power pitcher as he's already throwing 96 as a 16 year old. If I were an AL team I'd teach him how to pitch and DH him when it's not his turn in the rotation.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

And you're going to be WRONG. WRONG WRONG WRONG.

Safer bet, and 5+ WAR catchers are rarer than 5+ WAR pitchers.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

I'd take Harper too. I'm hoping the Nats can end up with both. With Harper you can get a once in a lifetime offensive force or a power pitcher as he's already throwing 96 as a 16 year old. If I were an AL team I'd teach him how to pitch and DH him when it's not his turn in the rotation.

Hell, I'd just keep him at catcher and reap the benefits.

[comahan]

And you're going to be WRONG. WRONG WRONG WRONG.

When he grows up, hes going to be wrong?

[SuperKevin]

Hell, I'd just keep him at catcher and reap the benefits.

That works too :)

[Brodeur]

When he grows up, hes going to be wrong?

I'm glad you got that.

[aNYtitan]

If you had the #1 pick would you take Strasburg or Bryce Harper?

Harper is still so far away from ever contributing to a big league club, and he has not seen a professional pitch yet. Harper does play a valuable position, but given the daily grind of playing at catcher, we don't know how detrimental that will be to his career. Strasburg has dominated everywhere he has gone, college and on the world stage. He is an ace and he can do nothing but get better. He is basically signing his deal and then starting for the Nats withing a week. Give me Strasburg

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Harper is still so far away from ever contributing to a big league club, and he has not seen a professional pitch yet. Harper does play a valuable position, but given the daily grind of playing at catcher, we don't know how detrimental that will be to his career. Strasburh dominated everywhere he has gone, college and on the world stage. He is an ace and he can do nothing but get better. He is basically signing his deal and then starting for the Nats withing a week.

Sending him directly to the Big Leagues would probably be the worst thing they could POSSIBLY do. Give him coffee cups in the minors, at least.

[aNYtitan]

Sending him directly to the Big Leagues would probably be the worst thing they could POSSIBLY do. Give him coffee cups in the minors, at least.

I would do that too, but I have a feeling he is just going to dominate, and his time in the minors will be short, cause if he holds out til the deadline, he has basically 2 weeks of minor league time, max 3 starts

[Tampa 2 4 life]

I would do that too, but I have a feeling he is just going to dominate, and his time in the minors will be short, cause if he holds out til the deadline, he has basically 2 weeks of minor league time, max 3 starts

Other Top Ten Pitching Prospects That Were going to Dominate:

Rick Ankiel, Bruce Chen, Ryan Andersen, John Patterson, Jesse Foppert, Edwin Jackson, Greg Miller.

[Borat]

Strasburg isn't going to the majors this year under any circumstance. Well, I take it back. Maybe if Dusty Baker is fired in Cincy and is immediately hired in Washington. Then Strasburg will most definitely be starting in Washington the day he signs.

[Brodeur]

Other Top Ten Pitching Prospects That Were going to Dominate:

Rick Ankiel, Bruce Chen, Ryan Andersen, John Patterson, Jesse Foppert, Edwin Jackson, Greg Miller.

Todd. Van. Poppel.

[aNYtitan]

Other Top Ten Pitching Prospects That Were going to Dominate:

Rick Ankiel, Bruce Chen, Ryan Andersen, John Patterson, Jesse Foppert, Edwin Jackson, Greg Miller.

There is also a list of top ten pitching prospects that did dominate
Clayton Kershaw, Tim Lincecum, Chad Billingsley, Roy Halladay, AJ Burnett, Josh Beckett

My whole thing is what makes you so sure that Harper will be able to constantly keep producing? He is just a high schooler.

[VoteLynnSwan]

Other Top Ten Pitching Prospects That Were going to Dominate:

Rick Ankiel, Bruce Chen, Ryan Andersen, John Patterson, Jesse Foppert, Edwin Jackson, Greg Miller.

Mark Prior anyone?

He probably would be dominating if he hadn't gotten Dusty Bakered.

[Brodeur]

Mark Prior anyone?

He probably would be dominating if he hadn't gotten Dusty Bakered.

I doubt it. His arm injury might have come a couple of years later but it was going to come.

[SuperKevin]

I doubt the Nats will promote Strasburg to the big league club this year if he signs. I hope they give him a start or two in Potomac. I'm going to start getting clubhouse access there.

[Giantsfan1080]

Cory Sullivan CF
Luis Castillo 2B
Fernando Tatis 3B
Daniel Murphy 1B
Jeff Francouer RF
Jeremy Reed LF
Alex Cora SS
Brian Schneider C
Livan Hernandez RHP

This is the pathetic lineup I have to watch tonight. Worst lineup in the majors this year? Very possible.

[yo123]

Cory Sullivan CF
Luis Castillo 2B
Fernando Tatis 3B
Daniel Murphy 1B
Jeff Francouer RF
Jeremy Reed LF
Alex Cora SS
Brian Schneider C
Livan Hernandez RHP

This is the pathetic lineup I have to watch tonight. Worst lineup in the majors this year? Very possible.



Thats pretty awful, but I bet Kansas City has put out something worse this year.

[fenikz]

ya dont think the dbacks have had a worse one, even with Upton out we have Drew/Reynolds/Montero and our call ups have all played great

[SuperKevin]

Cory Sullivan CF
Luis Castillo 2B
Fernando Tatis 3B
Daniel Murphy 1B
Jeff Francouer RF
Jeremy Reed LF
Alex Cora SS
Brian Schneider C
Livan Hernandez RHP

This is the pathetic lineup I have to watch tonight. Worst lineup in the majors this year? Very possible.

You made my choice very easy. I'll be watching the Nationals tonight

[Tampa 2 4 life]

There is also a list of top ten pitching prospects that did dominate
Clayton Kershaw, Tim Lincecum, Chad Billingsley, Roy Halladay, AJ Burnett, Josh Beckett

My whole thing is what makes you so sure that Harper will be able to constantly keep producing? He is just a high schooler.

I don't know, I just know a higher percentage of top 10 hitting prospects become stars than top 10 pitching prospects.

[comahan]

Oswalt on the hill = :D

[SuperKevin]

The other Nationals first rounder, Drew Storen, was promoted to Double A Harrisburg today. Don't be shocked if he's in the bigs in September when the rosters expand

[VoteLynnSwan]

I doubt it. His arm injury might have come a couple of years later but it was going to come.

probably... damn inverted W

[holt_bruce81]

What's everyones top 5 for the NL and AL CY Young award?

[Brodeur]

Youk deserves to get his ass kicked.

[KCJ58]

What's everyones top 5 for the NL and AL CY Young award?

as of today:

NL
1. Tim Lincecum
2. Dan Haren
3. Matt Cain
4. Adam Wainwright
5. Johan Santana


AL
1. Zach Greinke
2. Roy Halladay
3. Josh Beckett
4. Felix Hernandez
5. Justin Verlander

[Tha Wootster]

Whatever happened to Dustin McGowan.

[Sniper]

Youk deserves to get his ass kicked.

What happened? I just saw that he and Porcello got tossed.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Youk deserves to get his ass kicked.

How the **** do you miss someone with your helmet?

[Xiomera]

What we've learned today:

Porcello is even more of an awesome player than we previously knew.

Youkilis is a sissy punk.

[Brodeur]

What happened? I just saw that he and Porcello got tossed.

The little ***** threw his helmet at Porcello and then tried to spear him down but got thrown down by Porcello and started a melee. So manly of that ******* douche to charge a 20 year old rookie.

[Sniper]

Jason.
*************.
Bay.

[Sniper]

So manly of that ******* douche to charge a 20 year old rookie.

Should Porcello get special treatment because he's a 20-year-old rookie?

[cvv84]

The other Nationals first rounder, Drew Storen, was promoted to Double A Harrisburg today. Don't be shocked if he's in the bigs in September when the rosters expand

Wasn't that their intention with him all along? Is he still being used as a releiver/closer?

[Brodeur]

Should Porcello get special treatment because he's a 20-year-old rookie?

Pretty much yeah.

[Wally03]

The little ***** threw his helmet at Porcello and then tried to spear him down but got thrown down by Porcello and started a melee. So manly of that ******* douche to charge a 20 year old rookie.
I'm really growing rather sick of Youkilis, even as a Red Sox fan that knows his importance to the team, in many ways because he always seems to come off as thin-skinned. The dumbest part of the whole exchange was I fail to see anyway that Porcello intended for that pitch to hit Youkilis since it seemed the Red Sox hitting Cabrera, which I believe was also inadvertent was taken care by Porcello against Martinez in the bottom of the first.

[Sniper]

O/U on ejections for tonight's game is 3.5.

[Xiomera]

Terry Francona just got thrown out for arguing with the ump on a thrown out runner at 2B.

[Wally03]

O/U on ejections for tonight's game is 3.5.
My guess is over and my prediction is the next one will be Tazawa who will let a fastball get away inside against a hitter and get tossed as a result.

[Brodeur]

I want a GIF of Youk getting thrown to the ground by Porcello.

[Xiomera]

I want a GIF of Youk getting thrown to the ground by Porcello.

Porcello deserves Rookie of the Year just for tonight's actions.

MVP!

[PACKmanN]

lmao at Ruiz getting a HR...

[SuperKevin]

Wasn't that their intention with him all along? Is he still being used as a releiver/closer?

yes. he's being used primarily as a reliever and is said to be the closer of the future

[Brodeur]

NOiUV3xNlOI

For the other fans.

[PACKmanN]

NOiUV3xNlOI

For the other fans.

Youk = owned.

[SuperKevin]

And barring a huge comeback, the Nationals win streak ends at 8

[T-RICH49]

Royals are killing the Twins 8-1.Olivo is halfway to the cycle with a 3B and HR

[Brodeur]

Royals are killing the Twins 8-1.Olivo is halfway to the cycle with a 3B and HR

You think you could get Dayton Moore to loan the Tigers Farnsworth for the next 2 games?

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Stop gushing over Porcello. A real man would have planted himself in his position and then dropped Youk.

[T-RICH49]

You think you could get Dayton Moore to loan the Tigers Farnsworth for the next 2 games?

Farnsworth is on the DL.

[Brodeur]

Farnsworth is on the DL.

He is still of use.

[T-RICH49]

I could see abot Robinson Tejada.he throws 97-99 good guy to retaliate with

[Brodeur]

I could see abot Robinson Tejada.he throws 97-99 good guy to retaliate with

Well I just want Farnsworth to kick the **** out of some guys.

[dabears10]

Well I just want Farnsworth to kick the **** out of some guys.

http://wrigleyville23.com/2007/04/get-your-farnsworth-video-here.html

[Borat]

Giants bought out Matt Graham's commitment to UNC. Most thought he was a lock to head to college.

Another explosive arm to add to the system. Just got to get Wheeler and Tommy Joseph signed now.

[T-RICH49]

Well I just want Farnsworth to kick the **** out of some guys.

what about Olivo he knows how to kick the crap out of people

[Sniper]

Old Man Lowell is raking tonight.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Your new avatar, Tigers' fans.

http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/4482/judothrow.gif

[Brodeur]

Your new avatar, Tigers' fans.

http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/4482/judothrow.gif

Why thank you kind sir.

[T-RICH49]

man the Royals offense is clicking tonight

[RaiderNation]

Giants bought out Matt Graham's commitment to UNC. Most thought he was a lock to head to college.

Another explosive arm to add to the system. Just got to get Wheeler and Tommy Joseph signed now.

Lol thats probably why we traded those prospects for Sanchez and Garko

[holt_bruce81]

as of today:

NL
1. Tim Lincecum
2. Dan Haren
3. Matt Cain
4. Adam Wainwright
5. Johan Santana


AL
1. Zach Greinke
2. Roy Halladay
3. Josh Beckett
4. Felix Hernandez
5. Justin Verlander

11-3 2.26 ERA, 0.97 WHIP, .225 BAA, 87 Ks, 19 BBs

Where would you rank him? :)

[thetedginnshow]

11-3 2.26 ERA, 0.97 WHIP, .225 BAA, 87 Ks, 19 BBs

Where would you rank him? :)

with the gods

[Xiomera]

11-3 2.26 ERA, 0.97 WHIP, .225 BAA, 87 Ks, 19 BBs

Where would you rank him? :)

Right behind Edwin Jackson. http://draftcountdown.com/forum/images/icons/icon10.gif

[M.O.T.H.]

You're killing me Cubs. A bases loaded walk. gah.

In other news Tommy Hanson was real sharp after the 1st tonight. 7-2 now. 4 straight wins for the Braves.

[M.O.T.H.]

Woo Milton Bradley!

[Damix]

http://wrigleyville23.com/2007/04/get-your-farnsworth-video-here.html

The only reason I was happy when the Yankees signed Farnsworth.

[Brodeur]

I hope Papelbon gets his by a moving train.

[KCJ58]

4 run 5th inning thata boy Andre & also thanks Velez

[yo123]

I hope Papelbon gets his by a moving train.


As opposed to getting hit by a stationary train?

And the Twins are just the worst team ever.

[Brodeur]

As opposed to getting hit by a stationary train?

And the Twins are just the worst team ever.

Have you heard the guy speak? If he ran into a stationary train I wouldn't be surprised.

[themaninblack]

Wow, The Reds REAAAALLLY tried to give away tonights game. Thank god Cordero actually pulled through.

[aNYtitan]

Stop gushing over Porcello. A real man would have planted himself in his position and then dropped Youk.

Umm...he did drop Youk, like a little *****. I'm assuming he backed up because the little ***** tried to throw his helmet at him. God, my respect for Youk just keeps dropping and dropping. He complains always when he strikes out, and if he gets thrown inside, he tries to stare a hole into the pitcher. I enjoyed it when Joba went after Youk, even though throwing at his head was a bit too much.

Porcello gets a hand clap tonight, he was protecting his player and showed "You hit our best player and we will do the same". And he dropped him

EDIT: P.S. Yanks came back and won tonight, even though Joba had another sub par start. One bad inning does that to you. I'm kind of upset that management at least doesn't inform Joba of their plans. It basically goes from start to start

[thefalconer]

Umm...he did drop Youk, like a little *****. I'm assuming he backed up because the little ***** tried to throw his helmet at him. God, my respect for Youk just keeps dropping and dropping. He complains always when he strikes out, and if he gets thrown inside, he tries to stare a hole into the pitcher. I enjoyed it when Joba went after Youk, even though throwing at his head was a bit too much.

Porcello gets a hand clap tonight, he was protecting his player and showed "You hit our best player and we will do the same". And he dropped him

EDIT: P.S. Yanks came back and won tonight, even though Joba had another sub par start. One bad inning does that to you. I'm kind of upset that management at least doesn't inform Joba of their plans. It basically goes from start to start

well ******* said.

tommy hanson is filthy disgusting.

[sbh15]

As *** as you think it is, there's the case to be made that Youkilis just ****** the Tigers tonight.

He helped get their pitcher ejected in the third, and in such an important series they didn't want to use many good throwers. There's also the case that it lit a fire under the Sox's asses, as they went on to score like 7 unanswered runs.

Probably an argument that holds little water, but there's what can be said.

[thetedginnshow]

So if anything, Youk is a genius and the BoSox are like the greatest thing ever.

[aNYtitan]

So if anything, Youk is a genius and the BoSox are like the greatest thing ever.

sbh is just trying to create a positive spin on it. Youk got angry, got the opposition pitcher's thrown out (which is a good thing cause their bullpen is lacking) and he has a decent backup to replace him (Lowell). Still, I disliked the way he acted, this whole series has been "You hit us, we hit you back". What did Youk expect after Tazawa threw at Cabrera? That pitch removed the most valuable part of the Tigers offense.

[Borat]

Tazawa wasn't throwing at Cabrera. Look at that again.

[aNYtitan]

Tazawa wasn't throwing at Cabrera. Look at that again.

You are correct, take my statement back. But I'm sure Leyland may have nudged Porcello into taking control of the inside part of the plate after he watched Cabrera have to leave. I wasn't sure if the benches were warned after Tazawa hit him.

[no bare feet]

Whether or not Tazawa was throwing at Cabrera or not is not the issue for me at all. I think Porcello should have just ended it with that high and tight pitch to Martinez because after he hit Youkilis and was ejected that allowed for the Sox to get back in the game against some stop gap, spot starting bum in Labert. If Porcello let it end after that pitch to Martinez that game could have easily been had by the Tigers.

[Jughead10]

As *** as you think it is, there's the case to be made that Youkilis just ****** the Tigers tonight.

He helped get their pitcher ejected in the third, and in such an important series they didn't want to use many good throwers. There's also the case that it lit a fire under the Sox's asses, as they went on to score like 7 unanswered runs.

Probably an argument that holds little water, but there's what can be said.

And how will it effect your team when Youk now gets suspended for 4 or 5 games down the home stretch?

[Sniper]

So if anything, Youk is a genius and the BoSox are like the greatest thing ever.

Glad you understand. :D

[Jughead10]

Whether or not Tazawa was throwing at Cabrera or not is not the issue for me at all. I think Porcello should have just ended it with that high and tight pitch to Martinez because after he hit Youkilis and was ejected that allowed for the Sox to get back in the game against some stop gap, spot starting bum in Labert. If Porcello let it end after that pitch to Martinez that game could have easily been had by the Tigers.

I think he did end it. It was bad luck. That two seam fast ball definitely just got away from him. The pitch he threw to V-Mart had a purpose. The one to Youk just got away from him at a bad time.

[sbh15]

And how will it effect your team when Youk now gets suspended for 4 or 5 games down the home stretch?

Well if the way Mike Lowell played last night indicates anything, it will be fine.

But seriously Youkilis will get suspended 2-3 games max (there weren't even any punches thrown, mind you), appeal it until a series against the Orioles or something, and be back and the team will be fine.

Also, you're taking Lowell as some kind of terrible slouch. While he is lacking defensively, look at his numbers. He's batting .297, 13 HR's, 57 RBI. Not a superstar, not going to replace Youkilis, but you also have Kotchman and Martinez to play with.

[cvv84]

Brewers send JJ Hardy down to AAA and call up top prospect SS Alcides Escobar. Looks like the end of Hardy as a Brewer.

Bill Hall was just DFA'd too.

[aNYtitan]

Well if the way Mike Lowell played last night indicates anything, it will be fine.

But seriously Youkilis will get suspended 2-3 games max (there weren't even any punches thrown, mind you), appeal it until a series against the Orioles or something, and be back and the team will be fine.

Also, you're taking Lowell as some kind of terrible slouch. While he is lacking defensively, look at his numbers. He's batting .297, 13 HR's, 57 RBI. Not a superstar, not going to replace Youkilis, but you also have Kotchman and Martinez to play with.

Umm..no punches were thrown, but he threw his batting helmet at the opposing pitcher. That definitely is worth probably a 4 game suspension. Now if he just dropped everything and charged the mound, then yes it would be a minimal suspenstion, yet when he flung it at Porcello, that increased it cause you just aren't supposed to throw equipment.

Now of course Lowell isn't a slouch, but you are downgrading both offensively and defensively. I don't really see how throwing Kotchman into the equation is a potential upgrade as well.

[sbh15]

Umm..no punches were thrown, but he threw his batting helmet at the opposing pitcher. That definitely is worth probably a 4 game suspension. Now if he just dropped everything and charged the mound, then yes it would be a minimal suspenstion, yet when he flung it at Porcello, that increased it cause you just aren't supposed to throw equipment.

Now of course Lowell isn't a slouch, but you are downgrading both offensively and defensively. I don't really see how throwing Kotchman into the equation is a potential upgrade as well.

I'm not calling it an upgrade, it's a downgrade. But not like A-Rod to Cody Ransom.

With Kotchman I was just saying he's someone to throw into the mix to give rest.

[Hines]

Pedro Alvarez has been smashing the ball as of late down in AA. I could see him staying a couple weeks or a month in AA, then spend the rest of the season in AAA next season.

[aNYtitan]

I'm not calling it an upgrade, it's a downgrade. But not like A-Rod to Cody Ransom.

With Kotchman I was just saying he's someone to throw into the mix to give rest.

Well, lets see how they do over the next couple of days then. The suspension will probably get handed down soon, he appeals and then the appeal gets settled right around the time that the Yanks go up to Fenway.

[cvv84]

Pedro Alvarez has been smashing the ball as of late down in AA. I could see him staying a couple weeks or a month in AA, then spend the rest of the season in AAA next season.

Pirates just traded him to the Rangers for Nelson Cruz.

[aNYtitan]

Pirates just traded him to the Rangers for Nelson Cruz.

Man you can't joke about that, HinesWard will stab you!

BTW, Johnny has just gone crazy at the stadium, he is making his statement to get resigned

[Borat]

Happy Lincecum Day everybody! Admittedly, I'm pretty bummed since the Dodgers have beaten us fairly easily and also because I read a perfect description of the Giants season that pretty much drove home how I feel:

"This isn't a playoff team. This isn't a playoff lineup. It's a waste of a fantastic pitching staff"

Ouch baby. Very ouch.

[Borat]

Jarrod Parker to avoid Tommy John surgery.

Diamondbacks pitching prospect Jarrod Parker will be shut down for four-to-six weeks due to a strained right elbow.
Parker paid a visit to an associate of Dr. James Andrews last week. He'll avoid Tommy John surgery, but probably won't resume throwing until late mid-September. The 20-year-old has a 3.68 ERA and 74/34 K/BB ratio in 78 1/3 innings at Double-A Mobile this season.

Link (http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090811&content_id=6373040&vkey=news_ari&fext=.jsp&c_id=ari&partnerId=rss_ari)

[D-Unit]

Pirates just traded him to the Rangers for Nelson Cruz.
This is the kind of thing that's borderline believable. You're cruel.

[senormysterioso]

I like the Brewers shake up. Castro obviously wasn't getting it done as a bull pen coach. I do like Hardy and Hall, but they were in the way of Gamel and Escobar. I'm going to miss Hardy's defense at shortstop, but Escobar is supposed to be even better defensively. I really hope that Gamel doesn't Braun it up at 3rd base though.

[the_legend_killer]

I like the Brewers shake up. Castro obviously wasn't getting it done as a bull pen coach. I do like Hardy and Hall, but they were in the way of Gamel and Escobar. I'm going to miss Hardy's defense at shortstop, but Escobar is supposed to be even better defensively. I really hope that Gamel doesn't Braun it up at 3rd base though.

Gamel did fine when he was up before. Nothing amazing, but he held his own.

[M.O.T.H.]

The NL East is getting real...I'm excited. haha. Marlins and Braves are just agout on the Phil's heels and a Phillies/Braves series starts on Friday.

[Sniper]

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=4394479

5 games for Youkilis and Porcello, Edwin Jackson fined.

[Bigburt63]

Youk and Porcello each suspended 5 games. As is to be expected, both have appealed.

Edit: Sniper beat me to it.

[M.O.T.H.]

Ha. Pretty crazy that baseball cards arent worth jack anymore. All those people who spent so much money on them, hoping their investment would pay off down the line. Doesnt look too good.

[HChu]

Anyone know anything about Jerry DiPoto? He's the name I keep reading about being poised to take the Nats' GM job. It's a shame Rizzo is being given a raw deal, but certainly people in baseball know more than me about finding executives.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Carlos 'Brings The' Pena

[Brodeur]

Youk should get suspended double the games Porcello did for the weak ass helmet throw.

[aNYtitan]

Man, Yanks with another walk off win, great pitching by Burnett, even better relief by the bullpen. This team has gone out and shone they can win any type of game.

[wicket]

giants are getting raped by the officials again, this game wouldnt even be close with proper work by the umps

[Borat]

Yeah, they blew a call earlier as well. There has been a ******* gag reel of errors by the umps this series. Just brutal.

[wicket]

Yeah, they blew a call earlier as well. There has been a ******* gag reel of errors by the umps this series. Just brutal.

pretty much all against the giants as well

[slightlyaraiderfan]

Yeah, they blew a call earlier as well. There has been a ******* gag reel of errors by the umps this series. Just brutal.
i don't know what game you're watching, furcal was safe! ^_^

ethier!

[Borat]

**** my life.
**** my life.
**** my life.
**** my life.
**** my life.
**** my life.
**** my life.

[throwback54milkman]

furcal was not even close to being safe... When lincecum came off the field he pointed at the ump and said "f'n you dude"

[Borat]

The Giants suck so bad. We cannot afford the umps to be blowing calls like this. Just ridiculous. We have to win every game 2-1.

[wicket]

furcal was not even close to being safe... When lincecum came off the field he pointed at the ump and said "f'n you dude"

+1, seriously this calls have been a joke

[SuperKevin]

Is it me or have the umps been especially bad this year. It's like they are campaigning for the start of instant replay use on every call.

[M.O.T.H.]

Is it me or have the umps been especially bad this year. It's like they are campaigning for the start of instant replay use on every call.

It seems worse than ever, I'd agree. Especially if you're a Braves fan.

[RaiderNation]

Damn Pablo ALMOST had a walk off right there. Damn I jumped up from be bed when he hit it. Come on Molina clutch it right here

[Borat]

Giants season is riding on this game. **** it. We CAN'T lose this one.

[RaiderNation]

******* Rowand....

[Brodeur]

It seems worse than ever, I'd agree. Especially if you're a Braves fan.

http://www.hostbigimage.com/images/mekcz6mhvx98dydk4a.gif

[Borat]

I ******* quit. **** you Giants. Go Rangers.

[M.O.T.H.]

Bill Hohn seriously has it out for the Braves, and it seems like he's got several other umps on board now. lol. They're killing us this year. I've never been one to continue to question umps but, this year has been crazy.

[wicket]

oww that was a shocker by uribe

[djp]

Nice catch Juan

[Borat]

I wish my boss wasn't here right now. I don't want him to see me put my fist through the ******* wall.

[Brent]

******* Uribe.

[M.O.T.H.]

Martinez vs Samardzija, is a real interesting pitching matchup tonight. This could be an ugly game. I'm hoping Jeff gets his stuff together.

[wicket]

Martinez vs Samardzija, is a real interesting pitching matchup tonight. This could be an ugly game. I'm hoping Jeff gets his stuff together.

geaux shark

[Brodeur]

Bill Hohn seriously has it out for the Braves, and it seems like he's got several other umps on board now. lol. They're killing us this year. I've never been one to continue to question umps but, this year has been crazy.

Brian McCann will turn into The Hulk in the last game of the year and destroy all umpires.

[Brent]

**** YES Brian Wilson!

[Borat]

Giants bottom of the 10th:

Travis Ishikawa
Randy Winn
Juan Uribe

LOL.

[M.O.T.H.]

Brian McCann will turn into The Hulk in the last game of the year and destroy all umpires.

Sure, I can see that happening.

http://a.espncdn.com/photo/2007/0816/mlb_g_mccann_275.jpg

McCANN SMASH! :)

[tjsunstein]

McCann looks like Turtle from Entourage there.

[Brent]

someone on base for 10 straight innings and only 2 runs... goddamn I miss Barry Bonds

[M.O.T.H.]

McCann looks like Turtle from Entourage there.

Bite your tongue. Mccann is a gorgeous man, Turtle is a mooching marshmallow.

http://betweenthepoles.files.wordpress.com/2009/04/babyouttake2.jpg

[Brent]

GET THE **** OUTTA HERE! YESSSSSSSS!!!!

Way to make up for it, Juan.

[wicket]

well justice after all

[RaiderNation]

Wow Uribe did something right for once. GIANTS WIN

[Borat]

**** you Sabean.

Yeah, you little *****, I put the blame on you. Look at the shitbirds that are playing. Yeah, the kids that did well Fred Lewis (1-1, 2 walks, double) and Schierholtz (1-3, walk, triple, questionable call at first base) were removed for Randy Winn and Aaron Rowand.

God, I'm so disgusted right now.

**** it. URIBE!!!! LMFAO.

[Borat]

http://www.colleyvillebaseball.com/images/umpires%20-%20oops.gif

[SuperKevin]

Ryan Zimmerman has a 15 game hitting streak now. Deja vu?

[tjsunstein]

Ryan Zimmerman has a 15 game hitting streak now. Deja vu?

Orlando Cabrera has a 20 gamer.

[SuperKevin]

Orlando Cabrera has a 20 gamer.

Yes but does he also have a 30 gamer this year?

[M.O.T.H.]

Your lineup really isnt that bad at all. Morgan fits in beautifully and Zimmerman, Dunn, and Willingham are all having career years. Guzman is always consistent but, both middle IF position could use an upgrade and Dukes may never live up to his potential but, there is a lot of talent in that lineup. Just need to find some pitching and they could be decent.

[Brodeur]

I hate this ******* stadium.

[M.O.T.H.]

Laroche's first at bat back in Atlanta. Bomb! woo.

[yo123]

Orlando Cabrera has a 20 gamer.



I'll gladly take this for Tyler Ladendorf. Bill Smith actually made a good move for once.

[Brodeur]

God damnit Granderson. Do not try to kill yourself.

[Xiomera]

The Tigers are on the bad end of every break lately.

Seriously, their season is falling apart at the seams.

[M.O.T.H.]

Home Run #2 for Laroche on the night!

Yup, he just missed Atlanta. Sorry Pittsburgh.

[PACKmanN]

Det's defense = fail.

[PACKmanN]

so Tigers fans, can someone explain to me why the same pitcher is still pitching?

[Brodeur]

so Tigers fans, can someone explain to me why the same pitcher is still pitching?

It's a loss anyway.

[sbh15]

Did the Tigers fans expect to win the expected Beckett v. Galaragga?

[D-Unit]

If Tommy Hunter keeps pitching like this watch out... Texas might actually have a legit MLB rotation!!!

[Brodeur]

I'm going to kill myself when I have to see Magglio's deadass out there next year as he gets paid $18 million.

[M.O.T.H.]

Samardzija blows.

[Xiomera]

Did the Tigers fans expect to win the expected Beckett v. Galaragga?

I was even less encouraged when Galarraga was scratched with the flu and replaced with Zach Miner.

Nah, it's just all of the bloop hits and bad bounces are going against the Tigers these days.

We're toast.

[KCJ58]

Hunter Pence is ******* **** up

[M.O.T.H.]

Wow Mike Gonzalez what a catch. That should be #1 on Sports Center's top plays.

[yo123]

I was even less encouraged when Galarraga was scratched with the flu and replaced with Zach Miner.

Nah, it's just all of the bloop hits and bad bounces are going against the Tigers these days.

We're toast.


Eh, I think you still win the division by default. The Twins and White Sox sure aren't going to catch you, if anything you would have to come back to us.

[Paul]

Another great outing by Hunter. Aside from our 5th starter situation, this is the best shape I've seen our rotation in like... forever.

[M.O.T.H.]

Two game sweep of the Nats. 5 straight for the Braves. :) Laroche has been a monster for us in his 10 games back. I want to re-sign him already. :D

[D-Unit]

Another great outing by Hunter. Aside from our 5th starter situation, this is the best shape I've seen our rotation in like... forever.
...and we're without Millwood and Padilla. We have 9 days left to trade Padilla. Dodgers and Brewers are potential trade partners. Anything for him at this point is good.

[The Unseen]

well the Marlins are getting raped

[Xiomera]

Eh, I think you still win the division by default. The Twins and White Sox sure aren't going to catch you, if anything you would have to come back to us.

ChiSox will be a game back tonight if they win.

And they added Peavy and Rios. Tigers added ******* Washburn.

[awfullyquiet]

ChiSox will be a game back tonight if they win.

And they added Peavy and Rios. Tigers added ******* Washburn.

and there's still a lot of baseball left to be played.

[yo123]

I admit that I wasn't aware that the White Sox were this close, I just think the Tigers are a better team. I'm not buying Chicago at all. I don't think their lineup is strong enough. Not that the Tigers' is good either.

And is Peavy even playing this year?

[thetedginnshow]

nolasco whhyyyyyyyyy

[KCJ58]

what a ******* joke that cub fan is

[D-Unit]

ChiSox will be a game back tonight if they win.

And they added Peavy and Rios. Tigers added ******* Washburn.
3rd best team in the West has a better record than you guys.

[T-RICH49]

what a ******* joke that cub fan is

could not agree more.disgraceful.should have let him on the field to let the Phils take care of it

[Xiomera]

3rd best team in the West has a better record than you guys.

Yes, I am aware.

I don't think that means much though. The relative equality of the AL Central teams contributes to this.

[PACKmanN]

ChiSox will be a game back tonight if they win.

And they added Peavy and Rios. Tigers added ******* Washburn.

Rios isn't going to do jack for the Sox, if anything, he will remove a run opportunity for the Sox every time he starts a game.

[M.O.T.H.]

I wonder when we'll see Samardzija give football a try? lolz.

[Sniper]

<3 Josh Beckett.

Also, nice to see Pedro with a good outing.

[Tha Wootster]

Man I was scared for Russell Martin. Kung Fu Panda is one big mofo !

[Borat]

http://cdn1.sbnation.com/fan_shot_images/66202/martin1-1.gif

[Giantsfan1080]

So to put in words Russel Martin was pissed for nothing?

[Borat]

Yep. He was angry that he was blocking the plate and he got knocked down. Next pitch was the one that hit Sandoval.

[Borat]

BTW, the pitch hit Sandoval in the elbow. The ump called it a foul ball. LMFAO. The umpires this series were downright pathetic. There were at least 7 blown calls I can remember. Just horrific.

[sbh15]

Great series for the Sox, this doesn't mean I change my views any. This team needs to get hot and figure the pitching out, which actually looked a little bit better than decent in this series.

Josh Beckett I would just like to marry, but I still ******* hate the 3 through 5.

[yo123]

Great series for the Sox, this doesn't mean I change my views any. This team needs to get hot and figure the pitching out, which actually looked a little bit better than decent in this series.

Josh Beckett I would just like to marry, but I still ******* hate the 3 through 5.



There's another game tomorrow still isn't there?

[Borat]

HAHA. Found a compilation of umping mistakes from the SF/LA series. And this doesn't even include the missed pickoff at first from today which got Bochey kicked out.

fxjpAyO8Qu0

[Brent]

watching that video makes me want to murder.

[Borat]

Watching videos of umpires ******* up calls is pretty much my new favorite pastime. I'm like totally addicted.

[sbh15]

There's another game tomorrow still isn't there?

I didn't say sweep, did I? But it's at least 3 out of 4 heading into a crucial series against the Rangers.

So it's a great series, Sox get hot going in.

[yo123]

I didn't say sweep, did I? But it's at least 3 out of 4 heading into a crucial series against the Rangers.

So it's a great series, Sox get hot going in.



No, but you were talking like the series was over, I was just making sure you knew.



So apparently Liriano was good tonight? And Delmon Young is hitting lately? What the **** is going on?

[thetedginnshow]

so how bout dem cards

[holt_bruce81]

so how bout dem cards

Chris Carpenter for CY Young!

[T-RICH49]

Albert Pujols for CY Young, MVP, President

fixed your post

[cvv84]

Brewers are on a HR tear today!

[yodapoop]

fixed your post

Ur coming around to my way of thinking. I would be Pujols' catcher.

[T-RICH49]

I despise Joe Mauer

[D-Unit]

Can't say enough about how well the Rangers pitching is starting to take shape. Scott Feldman is now 12-4. Got the win today against the Tribe. 6IP, 1 ER, 6Ks.

Next 2 innings pitched by Feliz who gets 5Ks in 2 innings while blanking them out.

Closed out by Francisco.

A thing of beauty.

[Giantsfan1080]

Are there any plans to move Feliz into the rotation this year?

[iowatreat54]

Cubs' season is over. Ryan Howard just stole 2nd.

[Borat]

Are there any plans to move Feliz into the rotation this year?

No, I think he's a bullpen guy for the remainder of the season. He's not stretched out to pitch longer since they made this decision a month ago.

Informal poll: Which is more important to the integrity of MLB:

A) Policing PED usage

B) Policing terrible umpires

[thenewfeature06]

Cubs' season is over. Ryan Howard just stole 2nd.

he hit a triple last night somehow

[the decider13]

HAHA those calls were absolutely aweful. I had no idea they were that bad. I would say policing terrible umpires is more important than PED usage.

[D-Unit]

Are there any plans to move Feliz into the rotation this year?
Personally, I don't think they will move him to the rotation. EVER.

I don't know if he can keep up that kind of gas over a long career if he's apart of the rotation.

Plus, they've got so many other arms on the farm that can fill in the rotation. His arm is so special. I'd hate for it to get ruined.

[Stash]

A's have the day off after playing 28 straight games.

[SuperKevin]

No, I think he's a bullpen guy for the remainder of the season. He's not stretched out to pitch longer since they made this decision a month ago.

Informal poll: Which is more important to the integrity of MLB:

A) Policing PED usage

B) Policing terrible umpires

I'd say B.

[JT Jag]

Braves are still red hot.

No one has talked about it, but I'm really impressed by Adam Dunn this year. Guy is going to put up his usual 40 or so home runs and 120 or so RBIs, but he's also hitting .290 this year.

I really, really wish the Braves had ponied up to sign him this offseason. His power bat is just the sort of thing we've needed for years now, and he's certainly better than Garret Anderson.

[ChezPower4]

Adrian Gonzalez is on fire right now. His last 3 games

11/15 .733, 6 R, 1 HR, 6 RBI

[T-RICH49]

Yuniesky Betancourts August so far:

.308/.356/.564 in 11 games

pretty impressive stretch so far

[bearsfan_51]

Informal poll: Which is more important to the integrity of MLB:

A) Policing PED usage

B) Policing terrible umpires
Thanks for making it informal, I feel underdressed.

I'm probably in the minority on here since nobody seems to care about PED, but I'll say A.

The thing that most concerns me is extreme stat-inflation, as I like to at least try and compare eras. Umpiring has always been prone to human error, so that's a pretty consistant variable.

[M.O.T.H.]

Braves are still red hot.

No one has talked about it, but I'm really impressed by Adam Dunn this year. Guy is going to put up his usual 40 or so home runs and 120 or so RBIs, but he's also hitting .290 this year.

I really, really wish the Braves had ponied up to sign him this offseason. His power bat is just the sort of thing we've needed for years now, and he's certainly better than Garret Anderson.

Would have been nice. Garret hasnt exactly fallen off completely, though. So atleast he hasnt been a total bust. He's grown on me. He's the same player that he's been on the Angels for the last few years. Not an all-star by a long shot but, he's consistent.

As for Dunn, I wouldnt say the Braves have needed that bat for years. Certainly this year but, lets not forget at one time we were rocking Chipper, Tex, and Andruw Jones. We used to have a lot of power. Now we have Laroche back. :D But for real, Laroche is crushing the ball right now. Lets stick him in left next year! :) I honestly want to keep him around.

[JT Jag]

Adam LaRoche, since being traded to Atlanta:

13-35 (.371), 1.122 OPS, 3 HR, 7 RBI in 10 games while slugging .657

[cvv84]

Adrian Gonzalez is on fire right now. His last 3 games

11/15 .733, 6 R, 1 HR, 6 RBI

Helps when you face the Brewers and their AA pitching staff.

[M.O.T.H.]

Adam LaRoche, since being traded to Atlanta:

13-35 (.371), 1.122 OPS, 3 HR, 7 RBI in 10 games while slugging .657

Like Jason Bay, he was just bumming playing in Pittsburgh. He's back to his 2006 form. :D

[SuperKevin]

So apparently Aaron Crow may hold out AGAIN. He claims KC's 3 million dollar offer isn't enough for him to sign. He should have just signed with the Nationals(although then we wouldn't have Drew Storen)

[Borat]

Thanks for making it informal, I feel underdressed.

Well, you at least need to put on some underwear. Sheesh.

[T-RICH49]

So apparently Aaron Crow may hold out AGAIN. He claims KC's 3 million dollar offer isn't enough for him to sign. He should have just signed with the Nationals(although then we wouldn't have Drew Storen)

from what I understand is we can negotiate till the week before next years draft.and given he grew up a Royals fan I expect a deal to get done

[cvv84]

So apparently Aaron Crow may hold out AGAIN. He claims KC's 3 million dollar offer isn't enough for him to sign. He should have just signed with the Nationals(although then we wouldn't have Drew Storen)

Nobody is going to want to touch him in he doesn't sign for the 2nd year in a row. Like most of the 1st round picks, they're just waiting til the deadline to sign to get as much money as possible. If Strasburg gets even 1/4 of what he's reportedly demanding then all the other picks will want more money too.

[Brodeur]

No, I think he's a bullpen guy for the remainder of the season. He's not stretched out to pitch longer since they made this decision a month ago.

Informal poll: Which is more important to the integrity of MLB:

A) Policing PED usage

B) Policing terrible umpires

My answer would be pretty obvious by now.

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Rays sign Jeff Malm, Luke Bailey is close to signing, As is Todd Glaessman.

[T-RICH49]

Royals signed 4th round pick Chris Dwyer for 1.5 million

[djp]

Thanks for making it informal, I feel underdressed.

I'm probably in the minority on here since nobody seems to care about PED, but I'll say A.

The thing that most concerns me is extreme stat-inflation, as I like to at least try and compare eras. Umpiring has always been prone to human error, so that's a pretty consistant variable.

I think PED use is pretty well policed now.. most people are over the fact that the majority of players in the mid to late 90's were using PED's and have accepted that fact and moved on.

If this was still a problem, and people were still using steroids, then yes, obviously.

Umpiring has been especially terrible this year. and yes I realize it is prone to human error, but some of these calls are simply because the umpires are out of position and not making the correct calls. Just wait until it happens in the playoffs and someone gets cost a playoff game.

I think it's more of an issue right now than PED's simply because it's pretty certain that athletes are deathly scared of using PED's due to the backlash of Clemems, Sosa, McGwire, and so forth

[SuperKevin]

The Nats have given up their 2nd 3 homer game of the season. This one to Jonny Gomes of all people. We need Stephen Strasburg

[fischbowl]

Sorry M's fans. Adrian Beltre placed on the 15 day DL with a severely contused right testicle

[Tampa 2 4 life]

Sorry M's fans. Adrian Beltre placed on the 15 day DL with a severely contused right testicle

Apparently he 'tore' his testicle.

[themaninblack]

The Nats have given up their 2nd 3 homer game of the season. This one to Jonny Gomes of all people. We need Stephen Strasburg

And Bronson pitched a 2 hit CG shutout? Weird, even if it is against the Natinals.

[thetedginnshow]

Cue the laugh track. Beltre, who doesn't wear a protective cup, had a ball clip him in the groin during Wednesday's game. There was some tearing and internal bleeding. The team is waiting to see if he will require surgery. With surgery, he would be out a month. Without, roughly two weeks. Beltre's certainly been snake-bit in his free agent season.

im gonna go throw up

[aNYtitan]

So apparently Aaron Crow may hold out AGAIN. He claims KC's 3 million dollar offer isn't enough for him to sign. He should have just signed with the Nationals(although then we wouldn't have Drew Storen)

Matt Harington territory...wonder if he filled out his resume for Lowe's or something

[Brodeur]

Matt Harington territory...wonder if he filled out his resume for Lowe's or something

Maybe he has a hookup with Harrington at Costco.

[aNYtitan]

Maybe he has a hookup with Harrington at Costco.

Perhaps, but with the economy in the way it is...

[D-Unit]

Ho damn. Rangers are .5 games behind the Sox for the Wild Card spot and enter this weekend against them in a 3 game series at home.

Big time baseball ahead.

[Brent]

Well, you at least need to put on some underwear. Sheesh.
if I want to browse SWDC naked, it's my goddamn right.